Easter Boat Gathering

Published: Monday, 06 March 2017

ONCE again the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port is to host its Easter Boat Gathering—its 40th.

This will take place from the 14th to the 17th of April, when the usual dozens of boats are expected, and will see the museum come alive with music, theatre and activities for the whole family.

'Idle Women'

Waterway history will be explored by Heather Wastie and Kate Saffin in ‘Idle Women of the Wartime Waterways'. 'Idle Women' were nicknamed from the initials they wore whilst volunteering on the Inland Waterways during the Second World War. Heather and Kate look at their fascinating, but rarely told story through theatre, poetry and music.

Visitors can research their own unique waterway history in the Waterways Archive—a national collection of thousands of items, including documents, diaries, letters and photographs.

Music

Children and families can enjoy music created just for them by David Gibb, with the chance to sing and play along. Meanwhile open music sessions with other local and visiting folk musicians will offer the floor to anyone willing to share their tuneful talents.

Fans can look forward to a weekend of performances from some of the folk scene's finest. The line-up includes folk artist Phil Underwood, popular duo Mick Ryan and Paul Downes, and Chester-based five-piece Full House. They will be joined by local folk band and regular visitors to the museum - the Wirral Singers and Ringers.  Of course the whole museum, its exhibits and activities such as the forge, pictured above, will be open.

Start of season

Graham Boxer, Head of Museums for the Canal & River Trust explains:

"The Easter Boat Gathering is always a special event as it marks the official start of the main boating season. But this year is even more notable as it marks four decades of coming together at the museum. Music and performance is integral to our waterway heritage and we're delighted to have so many great performers joining us to entertain those who have travelled the canals and waterways to be with us. We look forward to a memorable long weekend."

The museum will be open for visitors with costumed interpreters bringing the Porters Row cottages and the Slipway to life. There will be behind the scenes tours by the museum's Young Curators and volunteers plus a whole host of family activities. Boat trips on Centaur and accessible boat Over the Rainbow will also be available.

See the museum's website for details of entering boats at the show,